I never thought I’d see a film where bromance played a major role in the plot, especially when the theme surrounds male entertainers; and when I say bromance, I’m talking about conversations about missed opportunities, lost loves, and life regrets. But that’s just what happens in Magic Mike XXL. I wasn’t sure what to expect or if I would even like the film, but I loved it! Admittedly, I haven’t seen the first “Magic Mike” (2012) and purposely decided to refrain from heading to Netflix to check it out because I wanted to see if the sequel could stand alone. With the exception of mentioning a past character, “Magic Mike XXL “manages to tell an engaging story that doesn’t make you lament, “Darn, I wish I saw the first one!”
In the latest film, as with the original, the story centers around Mike (Channing Tatum), a talented male dancer (and oh yes, he’s talented), three years after he gives up the stripper life. He has a struggling business and has been jilted by his girlfriend. When he unexpectedly reunites with his former dancing crew – Richie (Joe Manganiello), Tarzan (Kevin Nash), Tobias (Gabriel Iglesias), Ken (Matt Bomer), and Tito (Adam Rodriguez) – he decides to join them for a final performance at a national stripper convention. He and the gang strike out for a road trip – in a food truck – to make it happen. Along the way, they discover a little something about themselves and each other. It’s a ride you’ll enjoy taking with them – I sure did!
Image source: Warner Bros. Pictures
RADAR RATING
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Plot - 7.5/107.5/10
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Engagement - 9/109/10
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Style - 8.5/108.5/10
